THE council owned waste firm, Public Power Solutions, has been recognised at a national award ceremony in London.

PPS was named co-winner of the coveted PEEL People's Cup, which recognises team excellence in the operation of licensed or permitted waste facilities.

The cup was awarded as part of the Chartered Institution of Waste Management’s (CIWM) Sustainability & Resource Awards 2017, which showcase the best in sustainable practices, technology innovation, behaviour change and professional achievement.

PPS run the Household Waste Recycling Centre at Cheney Manor on behalf of the council. Waste is transformed into fuel at another facility immediately behind the tip.

The process has seen 75 to 80 per cent of waste diverted away from landfill, the site in Swindon was the first of its kind in the UK to use residual municipal waste as its primary feedstock.

Sean Magee, head of waste solutions at PPS, said: “We are very pleased to have won this prestigious national award which recognises the excellent teamwork which goes to ensure the recycling centre and solid recovered fuel facility run smoothly, delivering a cost-effective and sustainable solution to processing waste for Swindon’s residents.

"PPS takes the professional development, safety and welfare of the 60 employees in the waste solutions business very seriously, with plenty of opportunities for staff to feed back their views on improvements to the operation of the facility, and regular rewards for achievement."

Chris Murphy, CIWM deputy chief executive, said: “One of CIWM’s aims is to share best practice and professional standards across the sector and we were impressed by the excellent management approach and teamwork at PPS’ facility, as well as the robust approach to health and safety.

"The company is also clearly dedicated to promoting the skills and career development of its staff and they are a worthy winner of this year’s PEEL People’s Cup.”